King's College London Students' Union (KCLSU) is the oldest students’ union in the UK. We are a £11.3m income democratic membership charity that supports, empowers and represents 40,000+ students.

With our Strategy 2025, which is currently undergoing a refresh, we aim to constantly evolve in providing the support our students need to thrive. We achieve this by empowering our students and student leaders to shape their own futures and communities and connect them to exciting opportunities. Moreover, through elections and representation, we help students access spaces where they can lobby on behalf of their peers and bring about change. We also provide unforgettable social experiences for students through our clubs, societies, and large commercial portfolio.

KCLSU has one of the most diverse student bodies in the Russell Group, and we have a proud history of using this position to challenge discrimination, resist structural oppression and work against institutional racism.

About the role

As a Trustee, you will help the Board to ensure the Union meets its strategic aims and works in the best interest of its members. The Board focuses on issues of financial stability, quality of service, reputation, and legal obligations; and reacts to urgent issues. Our 2025 strategy was built following in-depth research to understand what students require from a modern SU – we have supported our students through the pandemic and the current rise in the cost of living.

Following changes in our senior leadership, extensive strategic research, and the planning of a review of our articles review, we would like an experienced finance leader to join our Board. They will be a critical friend to the Union and its finance/commercial team as we operate our venues during a cost-of-living crisis and prepare our new strategy.

You will act as Chair of our Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee helping to ensure our strategy is underpinned by strong financial planning and connects the charity and commercial parts of the Union. The committee has delegated authority to scrutinise the Union’s financial reports and efficiencies and you will be a key part in this process.

You will work alongside fellow Trustees, including students and officers elected to the Board. It is a great opportunity to form a mentoring bond with young leaders whilst providing strategic oversight of a multi-million-pound charity.

Who we are looking for

We are actively searching for a seasoned finance professional to enhance our Board. If you have in-depth knowledge of financial management and an understanding of board-level financial strategy, we welcome your application. In addition, skills including auditing and managing risk are especially useful.

Commitment and Passion:

Beyond your professional experience, your passion for our students and our overarching mission is paramount. Whether you are a seasoned trustee or someone with governance experience we wholeheartedly welcome your application. We recognise the importance of equipping our Trustees, and for those unfamiliar with this capacity, we will work at ensuring you can significantly contribute to our Board’s endeavours.

Time Commitment: 10-11 engagements a year. 

The role consists of the following annual commitments:

• Four board meetings where key decisions are made and our strategic direction is set, reviewed and evaluated.
• Four Finance, Audit and Risk subcommittee meetings, where you’ll be instrumental in scrutinising our financial decisions.
• An annual away day, serving as a reflective retreat to acknowledge our accomplishments.

Understanding the value and commitment each Trustee brings, we believe that our Trustees form the keystone of our sustained success. If you are propelled by a desire to leave a lasting impact and help craft the trajectory of our Union, we invite you to join our board.

How to Apply

To apply for this position,please visit Peridot Partners vacancy page and fill out the form provided. Please ensure that your application fully addresses the appointment criteria in the person specification.

At KCLSU Equality, Diversity and Inclusion are at the heart of everything we do and we endeavour to ensure equal treatment of all candidates. We welcome a diverse range of applicants and are open to discussing flexibility with the right candidate. Reasonable adjustments will be made for candidates with disabilities at all stages of the recruitment and selection process, and to ensure that a successful candidate with a disability can undertake the post.

Eligibility

To be eligible to apply for this role you must:

• Be residing in the UK.
• Not a current student or member of staff at King’s College London.